We will be in Paris for 10 day in April and are planning some side trips,We are thinking about Versailles on Sunday to see the fountains but are wondering about the crowds.We are wondering if Chantilly is a better option or is Versailles not to be missed.
Posted by
Seattle
223 posts
Michael,
I lived in Chantilly for a year when I was 16 years old. So, this advice is tainted by both youth and the passage of time.
I'd say go to Versailles. Chantilly is beautiful, the forest is lovely, but the Chateau isn't a big draw. The town itself is quaint, but there isn't much else to see or do.
Versailles is spectacular and the history alone makes it worth braving the crowds (after all, the crowds are there for a reason - it's worth seeing).
Good luck.
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
I LOVED Chantilly and would normally say GO,, but, NOT over Versailles, since you have not been to Versailles.
I have been(to Versailles) 5 times, and I will go AGAIN this year, BUT, I will also return to Chantilly this year(2nd time) as I love it for different reasons( painting collection is more impressive, no crowds, love Chantilly creme, and enjoyed the Horse Museum across street)
Vresailles is a DON"T MISS . no doubt about it, eveyone should go once. Yes, it will be crowded but thats because it is a world class site, the grounds ,the palace, the history, they are unique , and have been uniquely preserved,(not all orginal of course) but as you will note if you ever see the palaces in the Loire Valley, many are empty,,are very sparsely furnished, and the history alone of Versailles far outweights what most others have to offer.
To walk where Kings and Queens of many Europeon countries walked, to imagine how some lived in such gaudy spendour, while other people starved!
Posted by
XXX
1170 posts
And to think I was going to skip Versailles this time (never been) because someone said the crowds were over powering.
Glad read this but I will also visit Chantilly.
Isn't something (building/grouns) closed off at Versaille this year?